In a candid revelation, acclaimed documentary filmmaker and broadcaster Stacey Dooley MBE has pulled back the curtain on her earnings from the BBC, disclosing a significant six-figure sum for the last financial year.
The figures, officially published by the corporation, show that for the period between April 2023 and March 2024, Dooley was paid between £195,000 and £199,999 for her work. This places her among the higher-earning factual and documentary presenters on the network.
From Retail to Recognition: The Dooley Rise
Dooley's journey to becoming a household name is a modern success story. She was first thrust into the public eye after appearing in the BBC Three documentary series 'Blood, Sweat and T-Shirts' in 2008, which investigated the fashion industry's supply chains.
Her relatable and empathetic approach to hard-hitting global issues resonated deeply with audiences, launching a prolific career. She has since fronted numerous critically acclaimed documentaries for the BBC, tackling subjects from human trafficking and child soldiers to mental health and poverty.
More Than Just Documentaries
While serious investigative work remains her passion project, Dooley's profile skyrocketed after she won the sixteenth series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2018 with professional partner Kevin Clifton.
This victory cemented her status as a mainstream television personality, leading to further opportunities. She has since hosted the BBC's 'Glow Up: Britain's Next Make-Up Star', presented on 'Comic Relief' and 'Children in Need', and even launched her own successful podcast and book.
Her disclosed BBC fee is believed to cover her work across this diverse portfolio of programming, not just her documentary output.
A Glimpse into BBC Pay Scales
The disclosure offers a rare insight into the earning potential for top non-news talent at the BBC. While her salary is substantial, it remains below the multi-million pound sums commanded by the corporation's very biggest entertainment stars.
Dooley's pay reflects her value as a trusted, award-winning journalist who connects with a younger, hard-to-reach demographic—a key priority for the BBC. Her work is consistently praised for its accessibility and impact, often sparking national conversations on difficult topics.
This transparency is part of the BBC's annual report, which details the salaries of its highest-earning stars, demonstrating a commitment to accountability regarding public funds.
